Universal Rough-In Valve

ABSTRACT

A universal rough-in valve (20) includes a valve chamber (34) configured to receive a valve manifold (72). The universal rough-in valve includes a first valve inlet (22) configured to provide a pathway for fluid from a first supply line to the valve chamber and a second valve inlet (24) configured to provide a pathway for fluid from a second supply line to the valve chamber. The universal rough-in valve includes a first valve outlet (29) configured to provide a pathway for fluid from the valve chamber to a first outlet line, and a valve manifold (72) coupled to the valve chamber.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a rough-in valve for aplumbing installation and, more particularly, to a universal rough invalve configured to receive either of a pressure balance valve or athermostatic valve.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A universal rough-in valve may include a valve chamber configured toreceive a valve manifold, a first valve inlet configured to provide apathway for fluid from a first supply line to the valve chamber. Theuniversal rough-in valve may include a second valve inlet configured toprovide a pathway for fluid from a second supply line to the valvechamber, a first valve outlet configured to provide a pathway for fluidfrom the valve chamber to a first outlet line, and a valve manifoldcoupled to the valve chamber. The fluid mixing valve may include apressure balance valve or a thermostatic valve. The valve manifold mayinclude a first manifold inlet, a second manifold inlet, and a firstmanifold outlet. The first manifold inlet may be co-axial with the firstvalve inlet. The second manifold inlet may be co-axial with the secondvalve inlet. The first manifold outlet may be co-axial with the firstvalve outlet.

The valve manifold may include a groove configured to receive a gasketand the gasket may be configured to form a seal with an internal wall ofthe valve chamber. The groove may extend around an exterior of the valvemanifold. The gasket may include a plurality of rings connected by astrut. The plurality of rings may be configured to encircle the firstmanifold inlet, the second manifold inlet, and the first manifoldoutlet. The valve manifold may include a second manifold outlet. Thefirst manifold outlet may be in fluid communication with the secondmanifold outlet. The valve manifold may include an outlet passagewayincluding the first manifold outlet and the second manifold outlet, theoutlet passageway may include a central portion having a smallercross-sectional diameter than at least one of the first manifold outletand the second manifold outlet.

The valve manifold is positioned at least partially between the fluidmixing valve and the valve chamber. The valve manifold may include acavity configured to receive the fluid mixing valve, a first transitionfluidly connecting the cavity and the first manifold inlet, and a secondtransition fluidly connecting the cavity and the second manifold inlet.The first transition may be transverse to the first manifold inlet. Thesecond transition is transverse to the second manifold inlet. The valvemanifold may include a first channel fluidly connecting the cavity andthe first manifold outlet. The first transition may be positioned closerto a center of the valve manifold than the first channel. The fluidmixing valve may include a pressure balance valve.

The valve manifold may include a sidewall defining a cavity configuredto receive the fluid mixing valve, a first transition fluidly connectingthe cavity and the first manifold inlet, and a second transition fluidlyconnecting the cavity and the second manifold inlet. The firsttransition and the second transition may be at least partially formedwithin the sidewall. The first transition may be fluidly connected tothe cavity at a first entry, the second transition may be fluidlyconnected to the cavity at a second entry, and the first entry may bepositioned below the second entry. The first transition may extendthrough an exterior of the sidewall such that a portion of the firsttransition is defined by the sidewall and the valve chamber. The valvemanifold may include a first channel fluidly connecting the cavity andthe first manifold outlet. The first channel may be positioned closer toa center of the valve manifold than the first transition. The sidewallmay include a plurality of depressions. The valve manifold may include anotch configured to receive a protrusion on the fluid mixing valve tocouple the valve manifold to the fluid mixing valve. The valve manifoldmay be removably positioned in the valve chamber.

A universal rough-in valve may include a valve chamber defined by achamber wall, a first valve inlet configured to provide a pathway forfluid from a first supply line to the valve chamber, and a second valveinlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from a second supplyline to the valve chamber. The universal rough-in valve may include afirst valve outlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from thevalve chamber to a first outlet line and a valve manifold removablyreceived within the valve chamber. The universal rough-in valve mayinclude a pressure balance valve coupled to the valve manifold, thepressure balance fluidly connected to the first valve inlet, the secondvalve inlet, and the first valve outlet. Fluid may be configured to flowfrom the first valve inlet and the second valve inlet through thepressure balance valve and between the pressure balance valve and thechamber wall as the fluid flows to the first valve outlet.

A universal rough-in valve may include a valve chamber configured toreceive either a pressure balance valve or a thermostatic valve, a firstinlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from a first supply lineto the valve chamber, the first inlet extending along a first inletaxis, and a second inlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid froma second supply line to the valve chamber, the second inlet extendingalong a second inlet axis. The universal rough-in valve may include afirst outlet extending along a first outlet axis, the first outletconfigured to provide a pathway for fluid from the valve chamber to afirst outlet line. The first inlet axis and the second inlet axis may beconfigured to provide a generally straight pathway for fluid between thefirst supply line and the second supply line.

In a further embodiment, the universal rough-in valve may include asecond outlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from the valvechamber to a second outlet line, the second outlet extending along asecond outlet axis coplanar with the first inlet axis, the second inletaxis, and the first outlet axis.

In a further embodiment, the universal rough-in valve may include afirst service stop moveable between a flow position wherein fluid canflow through the first inlet and a blocking position wherein the flow offluid through the first inlet is prevented. The service stop may beconfigured to be rotated between the flow position and the blockingposition. The first inlet may include a service stop opening configuredto receive the first service stop. The first service stop may include acap configured to threadingly engage the service stop opening tomoveably secure the first service stop to the universal rough-in valve.The cap may include an aperture and the first service stop may include astem configured to extend into the aperture. The stem and cap may eachbe rotatable relative to the universal rough-in valve. The stem and capmay be rotatable relative to the universal rough-in valve independentlyof one another. The cap may be configured to translate along a servicestop axis as the cap is rotated.

The service stop may be axially fixed when the stem is rotated. The stemmay include a rim configured to engage a lower portion of the cap. Theservice stop may include a boot configured to receive at least a portionof the stem, wherein the boot is configured to occlude the first inletwhen the service stop is in the blocking position. An opening may extendthrough the boot and the stem such that fluid can flow through the bootand the stem when the service stop is in the flow position. The boot mayinclude a plurality of gaskets configured to provide a fluid seal with asidewall of the service stop opening. One of the plurality of gasketsmay be adjacent the rim of the stem such that as the cap is rotatedrelative to the universal rough-in valve the rim moves the one of theplurality of gaskets into contact with another of the plurality ofgaskets. The boot may include a flat bottom configured to abut a bottomsurface of the first inlet. The cap may be configured to be rotated by afirst tool and the stem may be configured to be rotated by a secondtool, wherein the first tool is different from the second tool. Thefirst inlet axis and the second inlet axis may be coaxial.

In a further embodiment, the universal rough-in valve may include a plugconfigured to be coupled to and prevent the flow of fluid through one ofthe first outlet and the second outlet. The first inlet axis, the secondinlet axis, and the first outlet axis may be parallel. The first inletaxis and the second inlet axis may be co-axial. The first inlet axis,the second inlet axis, and the first outlet axis may be co-planar.

A universal rough-in valve may include a valve chamber configured toreceive a fluid mixing valve, a first valve inlet configured to providea pathway for fluid from a first supply line to the valve chamber, asecond valve inlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from asecond supply line to the valve chamber, a first valve outlet configuredto provide a pathway for fluid from the valve chamber to a first outletline, and a guide configured to couple the universal rough-in valve to asurface of a wall for a plurality of distances between the universalrough-in valve and the surface of the wall.

The universal rough-in valve may include a receiver configured to engagethe guide to couple the guide to the universal rough-in valve. The guidemay include a face with a plurality of tabs extending from the face, thetabs configured to align the guide within a wall opening. The pluralityof tabs may be arranged in a circular pattern. The guide may include afirst opening configured to be selectively aligned with the receiverwhen the universal rough-in valve is to be positioned within a wallhaving a first thickness. The guide may include a second openingconfigured to be selectively aligned with the receiver when theuniversal rough-in valve is to be positioned within a wall having asecond thickness. The first thickness may be less than the secondthickness.

In a further embodiment, the guide may include a sleeve extending from arear surface of the guide. The sleeve may be configured to engage thereceiver, thereby aligning the guide with the universal rough-in valve.The sleeve may include an extension configured to engage an outersurface of the receiver. An end of the sleeve may engage a receiver faceand the extension engages a receiver sidewall. The extension may includea semi-circular extension. The extension may include a prong having ashaft configured to be positioned adjacent the receiver sidewall and ashoulder configured to be positioned adjacent a receiver rear face whenthe guide is coupled to the universal rough-in valve. The prong mayinclude a sloped surface configured to cause the prong to flex outwardlyas the receiver contacts the sloped surface. The prong may include afrangible portion such that the guide may be detached from the universalrough-in valve by fracturing the prong. The frangible portion may beconfigured to be fractured by applying a force to the guide in adirection away from the universal rough-in valve.

The guide may include a projection configured to selectively engage thereceiver. The projection may extend from the face of the guide furtherthan the sleeve extends from the face of the guide. The guide may bedetachably coupled to the universal rough-in valve. The guide mayinclude a sidewall having a plurality of recesses, each of the pluralityof recesses configured to receive one of the first valve inlet, thesecond valve inlet, and the first valve outlet. One of the plurality ofrecess may have a height that is different than another of the pluralityof recesses.

In a further embodiment, the universal rough-in valve may include afastener coupled to the guide, the fastener may be configured to engagea sidewall of a wall opening to secure the guide to the wall. Thefastener may include a body and a head, at least one of the body and thehead defining a tool engagement feature such that the fastener may bemoved relative to the guide by a tool. The head may include a serratededge. The head may be configured to engage the sidewall of the wallopening at an engagement point and the head may include a cam surfacesuch that rotation of the fastener about a fastener axis changes thedistance between the fastener axis and the engagement point.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The following detailed description of embodiments of the rough-in valvewill be better understood when read in conjunction with the appendeddrawings of an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood, however,that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements andinstrumentalities shown.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a top, front, right-side perspective view of a rough-in valvecoupled to a pressure balance valve in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a rear elevation view of the rough-in valve of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a front, right-side perspective view of the rough-in valve ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a top, left-side exploded perspective view of the rough-invalve and valve stoppers of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a bottom, sectional view along a plane define by line C-C ofthe rough-in valve of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is an exploded front, top perspective view of the rough-in valveof FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure balance valve ofthe rough-in valve shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the pressure balance valvemanifold of the rough-in valve shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a front elevation view of the pressure balance valve manifoldof FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a sectional view along a plane defined by line B-B of thepressure balance valve manifold of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a sectional view along a plane defined by line A-A of thepressure balance valve manifold of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is a sectional view of the pressure balance valve and pressurebalance valve manifold taken along a plane defined by line D-D of FIG.1;

FIG. 13 is a sectional view of the pressure balance valve taken along aplane defined by line D-D of FIG. 1 shown installed in a shower wall;

FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of a thermostatic valve manifold inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention and the rough-invalve shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 15 is a front elevation view of the thermostatic valve manifold ofFIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a sectional view of the thermostatic valve manifold of FIG.14 taken along a plane defined by line E-E in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a sectional view of the thermostatic valve manifold of FIG.14 taken along a plane defined by line F-F in FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of a guide in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of the guide of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a side view of guide in accordance with another embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 21 is a top perspective view of an eccentric fastener in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a bottom perspective view of the eccentric fastener of FIG.21;

FIG. 23 is top view of the guide of FIG. 18 with the eccentric fastenerof FIG. 21 and the rough-in valve of FIG. 1 in a wall opening;

FIG. 24 is a sectional view of the guide and rough-in valve of takenalong a plane defined by line G-G of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a sectional view of the guide and rough-in valve of takenalong a plane defined by line H-H of FIG. 23;

FIG. 26 is a front elevational view of the rough-in valve of FIG. 1coupled to the guide of FIG. 18;

FIG. 27 is a rear perspective view of the rough-in valve of FIG. 1coupled to the guide of FIG. 18;

FIG. 28 is a front elevation view of the rough-in valve of FIG. 1 and adiverter rough-in valve in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 29 is a front elevation view of the rough-in valve of FIG. 1 and anexisting rough-in valve;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the rough-in valve of FIG. 1 coupled towater inlet lines;

FIG. 31 is an isolated front elevation, partial sectional view of theboot of FIG. 4;

FIG. 32 is a top sectional view of the boot of FIG. 31 along a planedefined by line M-M;

FIG. 33 is a sectional view of the boot of FIG. 32 along a plane definedby line N-N;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a pressure balance valve coupled to arough-in valve with a ring separated from the pressure balance valve;

FIG. 35 is a right side elevation view of the pressure balance valve andrough-in valve of FIG. 34;

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the pressure balance valve and rough-invalve of FIG. 34 with the ring coupled to the pressure balance valve;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a flush plug;

FIG. 38 is a side elevation view of the flush plug of FIG. 37;

FIG. 39 is a bottom sectional view of the flush plug of FIG. 38 along aplane defined by line O-O; and

FIG. 40 is a rear elevation view of a rough-in valve in accordance withanother exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A rough-in valve is a valve used in plumbing systems to connect one ormore fluid inlets to one or more fluid outlets. A rough-in valve may beadapted to selectively restrict or stop the flow of fluid from the oneor more inlets. A hole in the wall may allow access to certaincomponents of the rough-in valve during and following installation. Afaceplate may be provided to cover the hole in the wall afterinstallation. Due to space and/or aesthetic concerns, in certaininstallations, it may be desirable to have a universal rough-in valvewhich allows for a smaller size faceplate. As shown in FIG. 29, arough-in valve 20 according to one or more embodiments of the presentinvention may have a smaller footprint than existing rough-in valves 21.It may also be desirable to provide a rough-in valve that is easier tomanufacture and repair. It may also be desirable to provide a guidehaving a variable thickness to couple the rough-in valve to a surface ofthe wall. It may also be desirable to have a rough-in valve with atleast one flat surface adapted to be positioned adjacent a supportstructure inside of a wall. The rough-in valve may be adapted to receiveeither of a pressure balance valve or a thermostatic valve. The rough-invalve may be configured to receive a fluid mixing valve (e.g., apressure balance valve or a thermostatic valve) and a manifold coupledto the fluid mixing valve.

Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like reference numeralsindicate like elements throughout, there is shown in FIGS. 1-30embodiments of a rough-in valve in accordance with exemplary embodimentsof the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 30, the rough-in valve 20 may be fluidlyconnected to one or more of a first water supply line (e.g., hot water),a second water supply line (e.g., cold water), a first water outlet(e.g., a shower head supply line), and a second water outlet (e.g, a tubfaucet supply line). The rough-in valve 20 may include a first inlet 22configured to be connected to the first water supply line 23 b (FIG.30). The valve may include a second inlet 24 configured to be connectedto the second water supply line 23 a (FIG. 30). The valve may includeone or more outlets 29 fluidly connected to the first inlet 22 and thesecond inlet 24 such that fluid may flow through the first inlet 22 orsecond inlet 24 and out the outlet 29. The outlet 29 may be connected toan outlet pipe 31 (FIG. 30).

Referring to FIG. 5, the first inlet 22 may include a first inlet axis26. The first inlet axis 26 may be an axis of symmetry for at least aportion of the first inlet 22. The second inlet 24 may include a secondinlet axis 28. The first inlet axis 26 may be parallel to the secondinlet axis 28. In one embodiment, the first inlet axis 26 is co-axialwith the second inlet axis 28. The first inlet 22 may be fluidlyconnected to a first passageway 30 such that fluid can flow through thefirst inlet 22 and into the first passageway 30. The first passageway 30and second passageway 32 may each be fluidly connected to a valvechamber 34 such that fluid can flow through each of the first passageway30 and the second passageway 32 and into the valve chamber 34 (FIG. 3).The first passageway 30 may include a cross-sectional area which issmaller than a cross-sectional area of the first inlet 22. The secondpassageway 32 may include a cross-sectional area which is smaller than across-sectional area of the second inlet 24. The cross-sectional areasof the first passageway 30 and the second passageway 32 may besubstantially the same. The first inlet 22 and the second inlet 24 mayprovide a generally straight pathway for fluid between the first supplyline and the second supply line. A generally straight pathway mayprovide a rough-in valve that costs less to manufacture than a rough-invalve with a non-straight pathway. A generally straight pathway mayallow the rough-in valve to be machined rather than cast duringmanufacture. A generally straight pathway may also result in a rough-invalve having a smaller foot print than a rough-in valve with anon-straight pathway.

Still referring to FIG. 5, the first passageway 30 may include a firstpassageway axis 36. The second passageway 32 may include a secondpassageway axis 38. The first passageway axis 36 may be co-axial withthe second passageway axis 38. In some embodiments, the first passagewayaxis 36 is parallel to, but offset from, the second passageway axis 38.In one embodiment, the first passageway axis 36 is parallel to, butoffset from, the first inlet axis 26. In another embodiment, the firstpassageway axis 36 is co-axial with the first inlet axis 26. In oneembodiment, the first inlet 22, the first passageway 30, the valvechamber 34, the second inlet 24, and the second passageway 32 arealigned to define a continuous fluid flow path through the rough-invalve 20. In one embodiment, the continuous flow path extends along asingle axis.

Referring to FIGS. 4-6 and 29, the first inlet 22 and the second inlet24 may each include an opening 42 configured to receive a service stop40. In one embodiment, the distance 25 between the service stops isabout 60 mm to about 90 mm. In one embodiment, the distance 27 betweenthe ends of the first inlet 22 and the second inlet 24 is about 120 mmto about 160 mm. The service stop 40 may be moveable relative to therough-in valve 20 from a first position wherein fluid can flow throughthe first passageway 30 or second passageway 32 past the service stop40, to a second position wherein the service stop 40 prevents fluid flowthrough the first passageway 30 or the second passageway 32, asexplained in greater detail below. The opening 42 may include an openingaxis 44. The opening axis 44 may be transverse to at least one of thefirst passageway axis 36 and the second passageway axis 38. In oneembodiment, the opening axis 44 is perpendicular to at least one of thefirst passageway axis 36 and the second passageway axis 38. The openings42 may be aligned with the first passageway 30 and the second passageway32 such that the service stops 40 may extend through the openings 42 andinto the first passageway 30 and the second passageway 32. In oneembodiment, each opening 42 defines a passageway for receiving theservice stop 40 which intersects one of the first passageway 30 and thesecond passageway 32. In one embodiment, a height 204 of the rough-invalve 20 is about 90 mm to about 110 mm (FIG. 5). In one embodiment, theheight 204 of the rough-in valve 20 is about 105 mm. In one embodiment,the height 204 of the rough-in valve 20 is about 1 inch shorter thanexisting rough-in valves. In one embodiment, the rough-in valve 20weighs about 15% to about 25% less than existing rough-in valves. In oneembodiment, the rough-in valve 20 weighs about 17% less than existingrough-in valves. In one embodiment, the rough-in valve 20 weighs about21% less than existing rough-in valves.

Referring to FIGS. 4-5, in one embodiment, the service stop 40 is aservice stop assembly comprising a stem 46 and a boot 48. The boot 48may be adapted to receive at least a portion of the stem 46. The stem 46and the boot 48 may each include an opening which defines a service stoppassageway 50 when the stem 46 is at least partially within the boot 48.The service stop passageway 50 may be aligned with the first passageway30 or the second passageway 32 when the service stop 40 is within theopening 42 in the first inlet 22 or the second inlet 24. Fluid may flowthrough the first passageway 30 and the service stop passageway 50 whenthe service stop 40 is in the first position (e.g., when the servicestop passageway 50 is aligned with the first passageway 30). In oneembodiment, the opening of the stem 46, the boot 48, and the firstpassageway 30 have the same cross-sectional shape. The service stoppassageway 50 may be defined by passageway sidewalls. The boot 48 mayinclude sidewalls 52 such that when the service stop 40 and the boot 48is rotated relative to the rough-in valve 20 from the first position tothe second position, the sidewalls 52 obscure the first passageway 30 orsecond passageway 32 such that the flow of fluid through the firstpassageway 30 or the second passageway 32 is prevented. The stem 46 andboot 48 may be rotatably fixed to each other such that the boot 48rotates when the stem 46 is rotated. The boot 48 may be detachablycoupled to the stem 46 such that the boot 48 may be replaced, ifdesired.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 31-33, the boot 48 may include a bottom 54which engages a bottom of the first passageway 30 or the secondpassageway 32. In one embodiment, the boot 48 has a cylindrical shapewith a flat bottom 54. The bottom of the first passageway 30 or secondpassageway 32 may be flat to enhance the seal between the flat bottom 54of the boot 48 and the passageway compared to a boot with a non-flatbottom. In one embodiment, the bottom 54 comprises a flexible materialsuch that the bottom flexes to form a seal with the bottom of thepassageway to prevent the flow of fluid between the bottom 54 and thebottom of the passageway. In one embodiment, the boot 48 includes agasket 56 that abuts against a rim 58 of the stem 46. In anotherembodiment, the boot 48 includes a plurality of gaskets 56 to preventthe flow of fluid through the opening 42 when the service stop 40 iswithin the opening 42. The plurality of gaskets 56 may be axially spacedfrom each other. The plurality of gaskets 56 may be separated by grooves(e.g., circumferential grooves).

In one embodiment, the boot 48 includes one or more ribs 53 extendingalong at least a portion of the length of the boot 48. The rib 53 mayform a seal against a sidewall of the first passageway 30 or secondpassageway 32. The ribs 53 may be positioned about the perimeter of theboot 48 such that a seal with the passageway is formed when the servicestop 40 is in each of the first position (FIG. 5) and the secondposition. In one embodiment, the boot 48 includes a plurality of ribs 53that engage the sidewall of the first passageway 30 and form a chamberin the space between adjacent ribs 53 on the boot 48 and the sidewall.The ribs 53 may be positioned about the boot 48 such that at least tworibs 53 are in contact with the sidewall regardless of the position onthe boot 48. The ribs 53 may protrude from the sidewall 52 by about 1 mmto about 10 mm. In one embodiment, the ribs 53 and the bottom 54 of theboot each extend from the sidewall 52 by an equal amount (FIG. 32). Theboot 48 may include a shoulder 59 (FIG. 31) adapted to engage a bottomof the rim 58 of the stem 46 (FIG. 5). The boot 48 may include aninternal gasket 61 (FIG. 33) adapted to engage a recess 63 on the stem46 (FIG. 5). The internal gasket 61 may extend inwardly from thesidewall 52 into a stem receiving opening 65 (FIG. 33).

Referring to FIGS. 4-6, the service stop 40 may include a cap 60 adaptedto at least partially secure the service stop 40 to the rough-in valve20. The cap 60 may include an aperture 62 configured to receive the stem46 such that a lower portion 64 of the cap 60 abuts the rim 58. A top 66of the stem 46 may be accessible through the aperture 62 when the cap 60abuts the rim 58. An outer portion of the cap 60 may be threaded suchthat the cap is threadingly engaged with the opening 42. The cap 60 andthe stem 46 may each be rotatable relative to the rough-in valve 20. Inone embodiment, the cap 60 is rotatable relative to the rough-in valve20 independently of the stem 46 such that the stem 46 can be rotated tomove the service stop 40 between the first position and the secondposition without disturbing the threaded engagement between the cap 60and the rough-in valve 20. In one embodiment, the top 66 of the stem 46includes an engagement feature such that the stem 46 can be engaged by atool (e.g., screwdriver or wrench) to move the service stop 40 betweenthe first position and the second position. The top 66 of the stem 46may extend above a top of the cap 60. The stem 46 may include more thanone engagement feature (e.g., slot for a screwdriver and a hexagonalshape engageable with a wrench).

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 14, the valve chamber 34 may be configured toreceive a pressure balance valve 68 (FIG. 6) or a thermostatic valve 70(FIG. 14). One pressure balance valve contemplated for use with thesystem described herein is P/N: GM40HLC-A manufactured by Kaiping YizhanValve Corp. Co. One thermostatic cartridge contemplated for use with thesystem described herein is P/N: 14010240U_Element_TH_01162742manufactured by Grohe. In one embodiment, the valve chamber 34 isadapted to selectively receive either of a pressure balance valve or athermostatic valve. In one embodiment, the valve chamber 34 isconfigured to receive a manifold coupled to either the pressure balancevalve 68 or thermostatic valve 70 such that a single rough-in valve 20can receive the pressure balance valve or the thermostatic valve.

Referring to FIGS. 6-12, the pressure balance valve 68 may be adapted toreceive two separate fluid flows and alter the flow of one fluid basedon a change in flow pressure of the other fluid. The rough-in valve 20may include a valve cap 84 which may be detachably coupled to therough-in valve 20 (e.g., by threaded engagement). The valve cap 84 mayat least partially retain the pressure balance valve 68 or thermostaticvalve 70 within the valve chamber 34. In one embodiment, the valve cap84 is threadingly coupled to the rough-in valve 20. The valve cap 84 mayinclude a sidewall 87 defining a central opening such that the pressurebalance valve 68 or thermostatic valve 70 is accessible through thevalve cap 84 when the valve cap is coupled to the rough-in valve 20. Therough-in valve 20 may include one or more tabs 82 (FIG. 6) torotationally fix the pressure balance valve 68, the thermostatic valve70, or a thermostatic valve manifold 110 relative to the rough-in valve20. The pressure balance valve 68, thermostatic valve 70, orthermostatic valve manifold 110 (FIG. 14) may include one or morerecesses 69 adapted to receive the tab 82.

Referring to FIGS. 34-36, in one embodiment, the pressure balance valve68 is configured to receive a ring 188. The ring 188 may be adapted tobe removably coupled to the pressure balance valve 68. The pressurebalance valve 68 may include a trough 190 adapted to receive the ring188. The trough 190 may be a recess in an outer wall of the pressurebalance valve 68. The ring 188 may be a split ring configured to expandwhen an external force is applied to the ring 188. The ring 188 may beconfigured to return toward its original shape when the external forceis no longer applied to the ring 188. The ring 188 may be coupled to thepressure balance valve 68 to assist in removing the pressure balancevalve 68 from the rough-in valve 20. The ring 188 may be placed in thetrough 190 when the valve cap 84 is coupled to the rough-in valve 20.The ring 188 may overlap the valve cap 84 when the ring 188 is coupledto the pressure balance valve 68 such that as the valve cap 84 isde-coupled from the rough-in valve (e.g., by rotating to disengage athreaded connection), the valve cap 84 pushes against the ring 188 whichpushes against a sidewall of the trough 190, thereby de-coupling thepressure balance valve 68 from the rough-in valve 20 (FIG. 36). In oneembodiment, the ring 188 is re-usable with other rough-in valves orpressure balance valves. In some embodiments, a user can manually graspthe ring 188 to remove the pressure balance valve 68 from the rough-invalve 20. In other embodiments, a user can position a tool (not shownbut could, for example, a screwdriver or pliers) between the ring 188and the cap 84 to remove the pressure balance valve 68 from the rough-invalve 20.

Referring to FIGS. 7-8, in one embodiment, the pressure balance valve 68is coupled to a pressure balance valve manifold 72. In one embodiment,the pressure balance valve manifold 72 has a height of about 20 mm toabout 30 mm. In one embodiment, the pressure balance valve manifold 72has a diameter of about 35 mm to about 50 mm. The pressure balance valvemanifold 72 may include a body 74 with an upper portion 76 adapted toreceive at least a portion of the pressure balance valve. The upperportion 76 may include an outer wall 80 defining a receiving area forthe pressure balance valve 68. The outer wall 80 may include notches 78adapted to receive protrusions 86 (FIG. 7) on the pressure balance valve68. The notches 78 and protrusions 86 may allow detachable coupling suchthat either of the pressure balance valve 68 and the pressure balancevalve manifold 72 may be replaced, if desired. The pressure balancevalve manifold 72 may comprise a different material than the rough-invalve 20. In one embodiment, the pressure balance valve manifold 72 ismanufactured from plastic (e.g., polyamide 1010) and the rough-in valve20 is manufactured from brass, copper, or bronze.

Still referring to FIGS. 7-8, the pressure balance valve manifold body74 may include one or more inlets 88. An inlet 88 may be aligned withthe first inlet 22 of the rough-in valve 20 such that fluid can flowthrough the first inlet 22 and into the pressure balance valve manifold72. A check valve 96 may be positioned within the inlets 88. Thepressure balance valve manifold 72 may include a groove 90 adjacent oneor more of the inlets 88 and outlets 92. A gasket 94 may be positionedwithin the groove 90. The gasket 94 may include a plurality of ringsconnected by struts and each of the rings may surround an inlet 88 oroutlet 92. The gasket 94 may help keep the inlet fluid separate from theoutlet fluid when the pressure balance valve manifold 72 is within therough-in valve 20. The rings may form a seal with a sidewall of therough-in valve 20 to ensure that fluid flowing through the first inlet22 and second inlet 24 enters the inlet 88.

Referring to FIGS. 5, 7, and 9-12, the inlets 88 may extend along anaxis 98 generally parallel to the first inlet axis 26 and the secondinlet axis 28. In one embodiment, the inlets 88 may be co-axial to thefirst inlet axis 26 and the second inlet axis 28. The inlets 88 mayinclude a transition 100 which provide a pathway for fluid between theinlets 88 and the pressure balance valve entries 102. The pressurebalance valve may include an outlet 104 such that the first fluid andsecond fluid flow through the inlets 88, into the pressure balance valve68, and out the outlet 104 along an outer portion of the pressurebalance valve 68. The pressure balance valve manifold 72 may include oneor more channels 106 which fluidly connect the pressure balance valveoutlet 104 to the outlets 92. The outlet 92 may be connected to a pipeor hose connected to a plumbing fixture (e.g., shower head, tub outlet).One end of the outlet 92 may be coupled to a plug (not shown) such thatthe fluid only flows from the other end of the outlet 92. In oneembodiment, the outlet 92 extends through (e.g., completely through orthrough a substantial portion of) the pressure balance valve manifold72. In one embodiment, the pressure balance valve manifold 72 issymmetrical about one of planes A-A and B-B. In one embodiment, one endof the outlet 92 includes a circular cross-section and the other end ofthe outlet 92 includes a rectangular cross-section. In one embodiment,the outlet 92 transitions from a first portion having circularcross-section to a second portion having rectangular cross-sectionhaving a smaller cross-sectional area than the first portion. The secondportion having a smaller cross-sectional area may provide a venturieffect.

The pressure balance valve manifold 72 may include a venturi 95 adaptedto be positioned within the outlet 92. The venturi 95 may be removablycoupled to the pressure balance valve manifold 72. The venturi 95 mayinclude a first portion 97 and a second portion 99. The first portion 97may have a frustoconical shape. The first portion 97 may transition froma first cross-sectional area to a second cross-sectional area. The firstcross-sectional area may be larger than the second cross-sectional area.The second portion 99 may have a rectangular cross section. The secondportion 99 may have a smaller cross-sectional area than the outlet 92.An outer surface of the first portion 97 may be substantially the samesize as the outlet 92 such that a fluid seal is formed between the firstportion 97 and the wall of the outlet 92. The venturi 95 may extend froma first side of the outlet 92 to a second side of the outlet 92. Theventuri 95 may extend from the first side of the outlet 92 toward, butnot extend to, the second side of the outlet. The venturi 95 may beoriented such that the second portion 99 is closer to a tub supply linethan the first portion 97 (e.g. the first portion 97 may be above thesecond portion 99) to ensure that fluid flowing through the rough-invalve 20 flows into the tub supply line and does not flow through ashower supply line. Fluid may flow from the pressure balance valveoutlet 104, through the channel 106, into the pressure balance valvemanifold outlet 92, around the outside of second portion 99 of theventuri 95, and out of the outlet 92. During use, the force created ofair pressure on the first portion 97 of the venturi 95 may be greaterthan the force from the fluid on the second portion 99 which preventsfluid from flowing through the venturi 95 to the shower supply line. Theseal between the first portion 97 and the outlet 92 may prevent fluidfrom flowing around the outside of the venturi 95 and into the showersupply line. A diverter switch (not shown) in the tub supply line may beactivated such that fluid flow is prevented through the tub supply line.The diverter may cause fluid to fill a portion of the tub supply line.As fluid continues to flow from the outlet 92, the fluid may flow fromthe blocked tub supply line through the venturi 95 from the secondportion 99 to the first portion 97 and to the shower supply line.

Referring to FIGS. 12-13 and 36, the pressure balance valve 68 mayinclude a spindle 112 adapted to be coupled to a handle 114. The handle114 may allow a user to activate the flow of water through the pressurebalance valve 68 and select the flow through the first inlet 22 and thesecond inlet 24 (e.g., by rotating the handle). In one embodiment,selecting the flow through the first inlet 22 and the second inlet 24alters the temperature of the fluid which flows through the outlet 92.The spindle 112 may include an opening 121 defined by an inner wall 115.The spindle 112 may include an outer wall 117 and the outer wall mayinclude grooves or reliefs. A limiter 123 may include a correspondingfeature to engage the grooves. The limiter 123 may limit the maximumrotation of the spindle 112. One or more spokes 119 may extend betweenthe inner wall and the outer wall 117. At least one of the spokes mayhave a thickness greater than the thickness of another spoke.

In some embodiments, limiting the maximum percentage of hot water thatcan flow from the rough-in valve may prevent scalding (e.g., at anelementary school). The limiter 123 may include an indicator 125 (e.g.,symbols, numbers, or letters) that provides a reference when installingthe limiter 123 on the mixing cartridge. The mixing valve may includeindicator 127 (e.g., groove or protrusion) and the limiter 123 mayinclude a second indicator 129 (e.g., groove or protrusion). Aligningindicator 125, indicator 127, and second indicator 129 with the thickestspoke 119 may allow for a selected percentage of hot water (e.g., 100%)to flow from the rough-in valve 20. A user (e.g., installer) may offsetthe indicator 125 from the thickest spoke 119 to reduce the maximumpercentage of hot water that can flow through the mixing cartridge(e.g., 90%, 80%, 70%, or 60%) even when the user turns the handle tofull hot.

Referring to FIGS. 14-17, a thermostatic valve manifold 110 may beadapted to receive the thermostatic valve 70. The thermostatic valve 70may be adapted to regulate the temperature of the fluid which flows outof the outlet 92. The thermostatic valve manifold 110 and thermostaticvalve 70 may be adapted to be received in the valve chamber 34. Thethermostatic valve manifold 110 may include a cavity 120 configured toreceive at least a portion of the thermostatic valve 70. Thethermostatic valve manifold 110 may include the outlet 92 and the inlets88 as previously described. However, the inlets 88 of the thermostaticvalve manifold 110 may include a first transition 116 in fluidcommunication with one inlet and a second transition 118 in fluidcommunication with a second inlet (FIG. 16). The first transition 116may include a first entry 122 into the cavity 120. The second transition118 may include a second entry 124 into the cavity 120. The first entry122 may be below the second entry 124. The first entry 122 and thesecond entry 124 may be on opposing sides of the cavity 120. The firstentry 122 and second entry 124 may each be aligned with an opening inthe thermostatic valve 70 (not shown) configured to receive a flow offluid. At least one of the first transition 116 and the secondtransition 118 may be open to an external portion of the thermostaticvalve manifold 110 at one or more locations along the length of thefirst transition 116 or the second transition 118 such that fluid mayflow between the thermostatic valve manifold 110 and a sidewall of thevalve chamber 34 as the fluid flows from the inlet 88 to the outlet 92.

Still referring to FIGS. 14-17, the thermostatic valve manifold 110 mayinclude an outer wall 111 having a plurality of depressions 113. In oneembodiment, the depressions 113 reduce the thickness of the wall of thethermostatic valve manifold 110 thereby reducing the material cost forthe thermostatic valve manifold 110 as compared to a thermostatic valvemanifold that does not include the depressions. The thermostatic valvemanifold 110 may include the outlet 92 and a thermostatic valve manifoldpassageway 126 which provides fluid communication between thethermostatic valve 70 and the outlet 92 (FIG. 17). The thermostaticvalve 70 may include a centrally located outlet (not shown) on thebottom of the thermostatic valve 70 such that fluid flows from thebottom of the thermostatic valve 70, through the thermostatic valvemanifold passageway 126, and out of the outlet 92.

Referring to FIGS. 2-3 and 13, the rough-in valve 20 may include ananchor 128 adapted to secure the rough-in valve 20 to a substrate (e.g.,a 2×4 wall stud or cross brace between wall studs). The anchor 128 maybe adapted to receive a fastener (e.g., a nail or screw). The rough-invalve 20 may include a receiver 130 adapted to receive a fastener (e.g.,a screw) to couple a faceplate 132 to the rough-in valve 20. In oneembodiment, the rough-in valve 20 is positioned inside of a wall and thefaceplate 132 (FIG. 13) is positioned on the outside of a wall (e.g., ashower wall). The rough-in valve 20 may include a rear surface 37adapted to be positioned adjacent a substrate (FIG. 13). In oneembodiment, the rear surface 37 includes a flat surface that sits flushagainst a substrate. In other embodiments, the rear surface 37 includesa protrusion 39 on the rear surface 37 (FIG. 2) and the protrusion sitsflush against the substrate. The protrusion 39 may space the inlet(e.g., first inlet 22) and/or outlet 29 from the substrate which therough in valve 20 is coupled to such that a tool (e.g., a crimping tool,a wrench) can engage a connector (e.g., pex connector or nut) after therough-in valve 20 is coupled to the substrate. The protrusion 39 mayprotrude from the rear surface 37 by a distance of about 1 millimeter,about 2 millimeters, about 3 millimeters, about 4 millimeters, about 5millimeters, about 6 millimeters, about 7 millimeters, about 8millimeters, about 9 millimeters, about 10 millimeters, about 1millimeter to about 3 millimeters, about 3 millimeters to about 5millimeters, about 5 millimeters to about 7 millimeters, about 7millimeters to about 9 millimeters, or about 9 millimeters to about 11millimeters. The rear surface of the protrusion 39 may be coplanar orflush with the rear surface of the anchors 128

In some embodiments, the rear surface 37 may include a depression 41(FIG. 40). The portion of the rear surface 37 that defines the edge ofthe depression 41 may be flush with the rear surface of the anchors 128.The depression 41 may have a depth of about 1 millimeter, about 2millimeters, about 3 millimeters, about 4 millimeters, about 5millimeters, about 6 millimeters, about 7 millimeters, about 8millimeters, about 9 millimeters, about 10 millimeters, about 1millimeter to about 3 millimeters, about 3 millimeters to about 5millimeters, about 5 millimeters to about 7 millimeters, about 7millimeters to about 9 millimeters, or about 9 millimeters to about 11millimeters.

A rear surface of the anchor 128 may be co-planar with the rear surface37 of the rough-in valve 20. In one embodiment, a flat rear surfaceallows a user to temporarily hold the rough-in valve 20 flush againstthe substrate with one hand while installing a fastener to the anchor128 to fix the rough-in valve 20 to the substrate. In one embodiment,the rear surface of the anchor 128 is the rear-most surface of therough-in valve 20. In one embodiment, the anchor 128 being flush againstthe substrate prevents the rough-in valve 20 from rotating or tipping asa fastener is inserted through the anchor 128 and coupled to thesubstrate.

The rough-in valve 20 may be positioned within walls of different wallthicknesses (e.g., acrylic showers have a thin wall compared to tileshower walls). Referring to FIGS. 18-20 and 23-27, there is shown aguide 134 adapted to occupy the space between rough-in valve 20 and awall surface such that the rough-in valve 20 is coupled to the wallsurface. In one embodiment, a user may selectively adjust the thicknessof the guide 134 relative to the wall and the rough-in valve 20 byrotating the guide 134 to align the selected one of the thick wallreceiver opening 144 and the thin wall receiver opening 146 with thereceiver 130 on the rough-in valve 20. In one embodiment, the thicknessof the guide 134 extending between the wall and the rough-in valve 20may be adjustable during installation to fit the distance between thewall and the rough-in valve 20 such that a portion of the pressurebalance valve 68 or thermostatic valve 70 extends an appropriatedistance through the opening and away from a user facing surface for thehandle 114 to be coupled thereto. The guide 134 may include tabs 136which, in one embodiment, are arranged in a circular pattern (e.g., a3.5 inch diameter circle or a 4 inch diameter circle) to assist inaligning the guide 134 within a shower wall opening 135 (e.g., a 3.5inch hole in the shower wall or a 4 inch hole). The guide 134 may abut awall (e.g., a rear surface 137 of a wall 139) (FIG. 24) such that therough-in valve 20 is positioned within the wall opening 135 such that aportion of the pressure balance valve 68 or thermostatic valve 70extends an appropriate distance through the wall opening and away from auser facing wall surface for the handle 114 to be coupled thereto.

The guide 134 may include a main opening 140 adapted to receive thevalve chamber 34 of the rough-in valve 20. The guide 134 may include oneor more second openings 142 adapted to allow access to the service stops40 when the guide 134 is coupled to the rough-in valve 20. The guide 134may include thick wall receiver openings 144 and thin wall receiveropenings 146 each adapted to be aligned with the receiver 130 of therough-in valve 20 depending on the wall thickness during installation.Each of the thin wall receiver openings 146 and thick wall receiveropenings 144 are adapted such that a fastener can be inserted throughthe selected receiver opening and into the receiver 130 of the rough-invalve 20. In one embodiment, the thick wall receiver openings 144 and/orthin receiver openings 146 are conical to assist in aligning thefasteners with the receiver 130. The guide 134 may include a sidewall152 with thin wall recess 155 and thick wall recess 154 (FIG. 19)adapted to receive the first inlet 22, second inlet 24, and the outlets29. The thin wall recess 155 and thick wall recess 154 may be differentheights to accommodate for different wall thicknesses which may affectthe distance between the inlets and outlets and the surface of the guide134.

Referring to FIGS. 19-20, in one embodiment, the thick wall receiveropening 144 includes a sleeve 156 extending from a rear surface 150 ofthe guide 134 and the thin wall receiver opening 146 includes a thinwall sleeve 157. In one embodiment, the sleeve 156 extends further fromthe surface of the guide 134 than the thin wall sleeve 157. In oneembodiment, the sleeve 156 includes an extension 158 (e.g., asemicircular extension) adapted to engage a portion of the receiver 130(e.g., an outer wall of the receiver 130) to assist in aligning theguide 134 with the rough-in valve 20. In one embodiment, the extension158 includes an arcuate portion having an arc length of about 15 mm toabout 20 mm. In one embodiment, the end of the sleeve 156 may includeprongs 160, instead of the extension 158, adapted to receive thereceiver 130 of the rough-in valve 20. The prongs 160 may include asloped surface 162 adapted to cause the prong 160 to deflect as thesloped surface 162 engages the receiver 130 (FIG. 13). The prong 160 mayinclude a shoulder 164 that engages a rear surface of the receiver 130to secure the guide 134 to the rough-in valve 20. In one embodiment, theprongs 160 are frangible. In one embodiment, the guide 134 is intendedto be removed from the rough-in valve 20 after installation and the usermay break the prongs 160 from the guide 134 by applying a force (e.g.,pulling) to the guide 134. In one embodiment, the guide 134 is intendedto remain coupled to the rough-in valve 20 after installation.

The guide 134 may include a projection 148 extending from a rear surface150 of the guide 134. In one embodiment, the rear end of the projection148 is position within the opening of the receiver 130 to secure theguide 134 to the rough-in valve 20.

Referring to FIGS. 18 and 21-25, in one embodiment, the thick wallreceiver opening 144 is threaded to receive a threaded fastener (e.g., ascrew or bolt). In one embodiment, the thick wall receiver opening 144is adapted to receive an eccentric fastener 166 (FIGS. 21-22). In oneembodiment, both the thick wall receiver opening 144 and the thin wallreceiver opening 146 are threaded (not shown). In one embodiment,neither the thick wall receiver opening 144, nor the thin wall receiveropening 146, are threaded. In one embodiment, one of the thick wallreceiver opening 144 and the thin wall receiver opening 146 is threadedand the other is not.

Still referring to FIGS. 21-25, the eccentric fastener 166 may include athreaded body 168 to engage the threaded thick wall receiver opening144. The eccentric fastener 166 may include a tool engagement feature170 such that the eccentric fastener 166 can be rotated by a tool (notshown but could be an Allen wrench, screw driver, or socket wrench, forexample) when the guide 134 is coupled to the rough-in valve 20. In oneembodiment, the eccentric fastener 166 may be rotated from the front orback of the eccentric fastener 166. A head 172 of the eccentric fastener166 may include a serrated outer surface adapted to grip the sides ofthe wall opening 135 to assist in securing the guide 134 to the wall.The eccentric fasteners 166 may include a cam surface on the head 172such that the eccentric fasteners 166 may be rotated to exert a radialforce on the sides of the wall opening 135 to secure the guide 134 tothe wall. In one embodiment, the cam surface includes a major radius 175and a minor radius 171. In one embodiment, the major radius has a lengthof about 7 mm to about 12 mm. In one embodiment, the minor radius 171has a length of about 5 mm to about 9 mm.

The valve chamber 34 of the rough-in valve 20 may receive a cover 173 toprevent debris from entering the valve chamber during installation ofthe rough-in valve 20. The cover 173 may also allow the rough-in valve20 to be pressure tested after installation. In one embodiment (notshown), the guide includes a bellows such that the guide may expand orcontract to occupy the space between the rough-in valve 20 and the wall.In other embodiments, the guide may include two pieces (not shown) thatare threadingly engaged such that the guide may expand or contract. Inother embodiments (not shown), the guide may include multiple piecesnested within each other such that the guide may telescopically expandor contract. In one embodiment, the guide 134 may have a cammed rearsurface or a plurality of different length projections from a rearsurface such that the distance the front surface of the guide 134extends from the rough-in valve 20 may be selected by rotating the guide134 relative to the rough-in valve 20 before coupling the guide 134 withthe rough-in valve 20. Referring to FIGS. 26-27, the guide 134 may becoupled to the rough-in valve 20. The eccentric fastener 166 may bepositioned in the thick wall receiver opening 144 when the guide 134 iscoupled to the rough-in valve 20 via the thin wall receiver opening 146.

Referring to FIGS. 37-39, a flush plug 192 may be configured to becoupled to the rough-in valve 20 during or after installation of therough-in valve 20. The flush plug 192 may be configured to be positionedin the valve chamber 34 to prevent debris from entering the valvechamber 34 similar to the cover 173. The flush plug 192 may extendtoward an end of the valve chamber 34 and the flush plug 192 may includea channel 194 (FIG. 39) configured to fluidly connect one of the firstinlet 22 and the second inlet 24 to one of the outlets 29 (FIG. 3). Theflush plug 192 may be selectively positioned in the valve chamber 34such that a desired inlet may be coupled to a desired outlet. In oneembodiment, fluidly coupling an inlet to an outlet may allow the flow offluid to remove dirt, solder, or debris from the selected inlet oroutlet. In one embodiment, the flush plug 192 includes one or morerecesses 69 (FIG. 39) configured to receive the tab 82 (FIG. 3) on therough-in valve 20 to prevent undesired rotation of the flush plug 192relative to the rough-in valve 20. In other embodiments, the recessesare detents that provide tactile feedback to the user that the channel194 is aligned with an inlet and an outlet but still allows the flushplug 192 to be rotated relative to the rough-in valve 20 while the flushplug 192 is fully (or substantially fully) seated in the valve chamber34 (e.g., without the need partially or fully decouple the cap 84 fromthe rough-in valve 20). The flush plug 192 may include an indicator 196that indicates which of the inlets and outlets are connected by thechannel 194. The flush plug 192 may include a handle 198 configured tobe engaged by a user to rotate the flush plug 192 relative to therough-in valve 20. In some embodiments, the flush plug 192 is configuredto couple to one of the pressure balance valve manifold 72 and thethermostatic valve manifold 110.

Referring to FIG. 28, another embodiment of a rough-in valve, generallydesignated 200, is shown. The rough-in valve 200 is similar to rough-invalve 20, but rough-in valve 200 includes a single outlet 29. The outlet29 of the rough-in valve 200 may be coupled to a diverter rough-in valve174. The diverter rough-in valve 174 may be adapted to receive adiverter valve 176 to allow a user to select which outlet the fluid willflow from (e.g., a tub or a shower). The diverter rough-in valve 174 mayhave a similar external shape to the rough-in valve 20 but the diverterrough-in valve 174 may not include the service stop openings 42. Inanother embodiment, the diverter rough-in valve 174 includes theopenings 42 and service stops 40 as previously described.

In one embodiment, a kit may include the rough-in valve 20 with one ofthe pressure balance valve 68 and the thermostatic valve 70pre-installed in the rough-in valve 20 with the corresponding manifold.The kit may include the faceplate 132, the guide 134, the ring 188, theflush plug 192, or the eccentric fastener 166. In one embodiment, therough-in valve 20 is commercially available as a stand-alone unit. Inone embodiment, the kit also includes the flush plug 196. In oneembodiment, the flush plug 192 is commercially available as astand-alone unit.

In a first embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises:

a valve chamber configured to receive a valve manifold;

a first valve inlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from afirst supply line to the valve chamber;

a second valve inlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from asecond supply line to the valve chamber;

a first valve outlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from thevalve chamber to a first outlet line; and

a valve manifold removably positioned in the valve chamber andconfigured to receive a fluid mixing valve.

In a second embodiment, the universal rough-in valve of the firstembodiment further comprises a fluid mixing valve, wherein the fluidmixing valve comprises a pressure balance valve or a thermostatic valve.

A third embodiment of a universal rough-in valve includes the universalrough-in valve of any of the prior embodiments, wherein the valvemanifold includes a first manifold inlet, a second manifold inlet, and afirst manifold outlet.

In a fourth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the third embodiment, wherein the first manifold inletis co-axial with the first valve inlet.

In a fifth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises the rough-invalve of the third embodiment, wherein the second manifold inlet isco-axial with the second valve inlet.

In a sixth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises the rough-invalve of the third embodiment, wherein the first manifold outlet isco-axial with the first valve outlet.

In a seventh embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the third embodiment, wherein the valve manifoldincludes a groove configured to receive a gasket, the gasket configuredto form a seal with an internal wall of the valve chamber.

In an eighth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the seventh embodiment, wherein the groove extendsaround an exterior of the valve manifold.

In a ninth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises the rough-invalve of the seventh embodiment, wherein the gasket comprises aplurality of rings, each of the plurality of rings connected to anotherof the plurality of rings by a strut.

In a tenth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises the rough-invalve of the ninth embodiment, wherein the plurality of rings areconfigured to encircle the first manifold inlet, the second manifoldinlet, and the first manifold outlet.

In an eleventh embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the third embodiment, wherein the valve manifoldincludes a second manifold outlet.

In a twelfth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the eleventh embodiment, wherein the first manifoldoutlet is in fluid communication with the second manifold outlet.

In a thirteenth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the eleventh embodiment, wherein the valve manifoldincludes an outlet passageway comprising the first manifold outlet andthe second manifold outlet, the outlet passageway including a centralportion having a smaller cross-sectional diameter than at least one ofthe first manifold outlet and the second manifold outlet.

In a fourteenth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the any of the first through third embodiments,wherein the valve manifold is positioned at least partially between thefluid mixing valve and the valve chamber.

In a fifteenth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the third embodiment, wherein the valve manifoldincludes a cavity configured to receive the fluid mixing valve, a firsttransition fluidly connecting the cavity and the first manifold inlet,and a second transition fluidly connecting the cavity and the secondmanifold inlet.

In a sixteenth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the fifteenth embodiment, wherein the first transitionis transverse to the first manifold inlet.

In a seventeenth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the fifteenth embodiment, wherein the secondtransition is transverse to the second manifold inlet.

In an eighteenth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the fifteenth embodiment, wherein the valve manifoldincludes a first channel fluidly connecting the cavity and the firstmanifold outlet.

In a nineteenth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the eighteenth embodiment, wherein the firsttransition is positioned closer to a center of the valve manifold thanthe first channel.

In a twentieth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the third embodiment, wherein the valve manifoldincludes a sidewall defining a cavity configured to receive the fluidmixing valve, a first transition fluidly connecting the cavity and thefirst manifold inlet, and a second transition fluidly connecting thecavity and the second manifold inlet.

In a twenty-first embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the twentieth embodiment, wherein the first transitionand the second transition are at least partially formed within thesidewall.

In a twenty-second embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the twentieth embodiment, wherein the first transitionis fluidly connected to the cavity at a first entry, the secondtransition is fluidly connected to the cavity at a second entry, and thefirst entry is positioned below the second entry.

In a twenty-third embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the twentieth embodiment, wherein the first transitionextends through an exterior of the sidewall such that a portion of thefirst transition is defined by the sidewall and the valve chamber.

In a twenty-fourth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the twentieth embodiment, wherein the valve manifoldincludes a first channel fluidly connecting the cavity and the firstmanifold outlet.

In a twenty-fifth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the twenty-fourth embodiment, wherein the firstchannel is positioned closer to a center of the valve manifold than thefirst transition.

In a twenty-sixth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the twentieth embodiment, wherein the sidewallincludes a plurality of depressions.

In a twenty-seventh embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the twentieth embodiment, wherein the valve manifoldincludes a notch configured to receive a protrusion on the fluid mixingvalve to couple the valve manifold to the fluid mixing valve.

In a twenty-eighth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises:

a valve chamber defined by a chamber wall;

a first valve inlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from afirst supply line to the valve chamber;

a second valve inlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from asecond supply line to the valve chamber;

a first valve outlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from thevalve chamber to a first outlet line;

a valve manifold removably received within the valve chamber;

a pressure balance valve coupled to the valve manifold, the pressurebalance fluidly connected to the first valve inlet, the second valveinlet, and the first valve outlet,

wherein fluid is configured to flow from the first valve inlet and thesecond valve inlet through the pressure balance valve and between thepressure balance valve and the chamber wall as the fluid flows to thefirst valve outlet.

In a twenty-ninth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises:

a valve chamber configured to receive either a pressure balance valve ora thermostatic valve;

a first inlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from a firstsupply line to the valve chamber, the first inlet extending along afirst inlet axis;

a second inlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from a secondsupply line to the valve chamber, the second inlet extending along asecond inlet axis;

a first outlet extending along a first outlet axis, the first outletconfigured to provide a pathway for fluid from the valve chamber to afirst outlet line,

wherein the first inlet axis and the second inlet axis are configured toprovide a generally straight pathway for fluid between the first supplyline and the second supply line.

In a thirtieth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the twenty-ninth embodiment, and further comprises asecond outlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from the valvechamber to a second outlet line, the second outlet extending along asecond outlet axis coplanar with the first inlet axis, the second inletaxis, and the first outlet axis.

In a thirty-first embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the twenty-ninth embodiment, and further comprises afirst service stop moveable between a flow position wherein fluid canflow through the first inlet and a blocking position wherein the flow offluid through the first inlet is prevented.

In a thirty-second embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the thirty-first embodiment, wherein the service stopis configured to be rotated between the flow position and the blockingposition.

In a thirty-third embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the thirty-second embodiment, wherein the first inletincludes a service stop opening configured to receive the first servicestop.

In a thirty-fourth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the thirty-third embodiment, wherein the first servicestop includes a cap configured to threadingly engage the service stopopening to moveably secure the first service stop to the universalrough-in valve.

In a thirty-fifth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the thirty-fourth embodiment, wherein the cap includesan aperture, and

wherein the first service stop includes a stem configured to extend intothe aperture.

In a thirty-sixth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the thirty-fifth embodiment, wherein the stem and capare each rotatable relative to the universal rough-in valve.

In a thirty-seventh embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the thirty-sixth embodiment, wherein the stem and capare rotatable relative to the universal rough-in valve independently ofone another.

In a thirty-eighth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the thirty-fifth embodiment, wherein the cap isconfigured to translate along a service stop axis as the cap is rotated.

In a thirty-ninth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the thirty-eighth embodiment, wherein the service stopis axially fixed when the stem is rotated.

In a fortieth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the thirty-fifth embodiment, wherein the stem includesa rim configured to engage a lower portion of the cap.

In a forty-first embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the thirty-fifth embodiment, wherein the service stopincludes a boot configured to receive at least a portion of the stem,wherein the boot is configured to occlude the first inlet when theservice stop is in the blocking position.

In a forty-second embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the forty-first embodiment, wherein an opening extendsthrough the boot and the stem such that fluid can flow through the bootand the stem when the service stop is in the flow position.

In a forty-third embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the forty-first embodiment, wherein the boot includesa plurality of gaskets configured to provide a fluid seal with asidewall of the service stop opening.

In a forty-fourth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the forty-third embodiment, wherein one of theplurality of gaskets is adjacent the rim of the stem such that as thecap is rotated relative to the universal rough-in valve the rim movesthe one of the plurality of gaskets into contact with another of theplurality of gaskets.

In a forty-fifth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the forty-first embodiment, wherein the boot includesa flat bottom configured to abut a bottom surface of the first inlet.

In a forty-sixth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the thirty-fifth embodiment, wherein the cap isconfigured to be rotated by a first tool and the stem is configured tobe rotated by a second tool, wherein the first tool is different fromthe second tool.

In a forty-seventh embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the twenty-ninth embodiment, wherein the first inletaxis and the second inlet axis are coaxial.

In a forty-eighth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the twenty-ninth embodiment and further comprises aplug configured to be coupled to and prevent the flow of fluid throughone of the first outlet and the second outlet.

In a forty-ninth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the twenty-ninth embodiment, wherein the first inletaxis, the second inlet axis, and the first outlet axis are parallel.

In a fiftieth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the twenty-ninth embodiment, wherein the first inletaxis and the second inlet axis are co-axial.

In a fifty-first embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the twenty-ninth embodiment, wherein the first inletaxis, the second inlet axis, and the first outlet axis are co-planar.

In a fifty-second embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises:

a valve chamber configured to receive a fluid mixing valve;

a first valve inlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from afirst supply line to the valve chamber;

a second valve inlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from asecond supply line to the valve chamber;

a first valve outlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from thevalve chamber to a first outlet line; and

a guide configured to couple the universal rough-in valve to a surfaceof a wall for a plurality of distances between the universal rough-invalve and the surface of the wall.

In a fifty-third embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the fifty-second embodiment, wherein the universalrough-in valve includes a receiver configured to engage the guide tocouple the guide to the universal rough-in valve.

In a fifty-fourth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the fifty-second embodiment, wherein the guideincludes a face with a plurality of tabs extending from the face, thetabs configured to align the guide within a wall opening.

In a fifty-fifth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the fifty-second embodiment, wherein the plurality oftabs are arranged in a circular pattern.

In a fifty-sixth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the fifty-third embodiment, wherein the guide includesa first opening configured to be selectively aligned with the receiverwhen the universal rough-in valve is to be positioned within a wallhaving a first thickness, wherein the guide includes a second openingconfigured to be selectively aligned with the receiver when theuniversal rough-in valve is to be positioned within a wall having asecond thickness, and wherein the first thickness is less than thesecond thickness.

In a fifty-seventh embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the fifty-sixth embodiment, wherein the guide includesa sleeve extending from a rear surface of the guide.

In a fifty-eighth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the fifty-seventh embodiment, wherein the sleeve isconfigured to engage the receiver, thereby aligning the guide with theuniversal rough-in valve.

In a fifty-ninth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the fifty-seventh embodiment, wherein the sleeveincludes an extension configured to engage an outer surface of thereceiver.

In a sixtieth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the fifty-ninth embodiment, wherein an end of thesleeve engages a receiver face and the extension engages a receiversidewall.

In a sixty-first embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the fifty-ninth embodiment, wherein the extensioncomprises a semi-circular extension.

In a sixty-second embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the sixtieth embodiment, wherein the extensioncomprises a prong having a shaft configured to be positioned adjacentthe receiver sidewall and a shoulder configured to be positionedadjacent a receiver rear face when the guide is coupled to the universalrough-in valve.

In a sixty-third embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the sixty-second embodiment, wherein the prongincludes a sloped surface configured to cause the prong to flexoutwardly as the receiver contacts the sloped surface.

In a sixty-fourth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the sixty-second embodiment, wherein the prongincludes a frangible portion such that the guide may be detached fromthe universal rough-in valve by fracturing the prong.

In a sixty-fifth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the sixty-fourth embodiment, wherein the frangibleportion is configured to be fractured by applying a force to the guidein a direction away from the universal rough-in valve.

In a sixty-sixth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the sixty-fifth embodiment, wherein the guide includesa projection configured to selectively engage the receiver.

In a sixty-seventh embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the sixty-sixth embodiment, wherein the projectionextends from the face of the guide further than the sleeve extends fromthe face of the guide.

In a sixty-eighth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the fifty-second embodiment, wherein the guide isdetachably coupled to the universal rough-in valve.

In a sixty-ninth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the fifty-second embodiment, wherein the guideincludes a sidewall having a plurality of recesses, each of theplurality of recesses configured to receive one of the first valveinlet, the second valve inlet, and the first valve outlet.

In a seventieth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the sixty-ninth embodiment, wherein one of theplurality of recess has a height that is different than another of theplurality of recesses.

In a seventy-first embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the fifty-second embodiment, and further comprises afastener coupled to the guide, the fastener configured to engage asidewall of a wall opening to secure the guide to the wall.

In a seventy-second embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the seventy-first embodiment, wherein the fastenerincludes a body and a head, at least one of the body and the headdefining a tool engagement feature such that the fastener may be movedrelative to the guide by a tool.

In a seventy-third embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the seventy-second embodiment, wherein the headincludes a serrated edge.

In a seventy-fourth embodiment, a universal rough-in valve comprises therough-in valve of the seventy-second embodiment, wherein the head isconfigured to engage the sidewall of the wall opening at an engagementpoint and the head includes a cam surface such that rotation of thefastener about a fastener axis changes the distance between the fasteneraxis and the engagement point.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could bemade to the exemplary embodiments shown and described above withoutdeparting from the broad inventive concepts thereof. It is understood,therefore, that this invention is not limited to the exemplaryembodiments shown and described, but it is intended to covermodifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention asdefined by the claims. For example, specific features of the exemplaryembodiments may or may not be part of the claimed invention and variousfeatures of the disclosed embodiments may be combined. Unlessspecifically set forth herein, the terms “a”, “an” and “the” are notlimited to one element but instead should be read as meaning “at leastone”.

It is to be understood that at least some of the figures anddescriptions of the invention have been simplified to focus on elementsthat are relevant for a clear understanding of the invention, whileeliminating, for purposes of clarity, other elements that those ofordinary skill in the art will appreciate may also comprise a portion ofthe invention. However, because such elements are well known in the art,and because they do not necessarily facilitate a better understanding ofthe invention, a description of such elements is not provided herein.

Further, to the extent that the methods of the present invention do notrely on the particular order of steps set forth herein, the particularorder of the steps should not be construed as limitation on the claims.Any claims directed to the methods of the present invention should notbe limited to the performance of their steps in the order written, andone skilled in the art can readily appreciate that the steps may bevaried and still remain within the spirit and scope of the presentinvention.

1. A universal rough-in valve comprising: a valve chamber configured toreceive a valve manifold; a first valve inlet configured to provide apathway for fluid from a first supply line to the valve chamber; asecond valve inlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from asecond supply line to the valve chamber; a first valve outlet configuredto provide a pathway for fluid from the valve chamber to a first outletline; and an eccentric fastener configured to at least temporarilycouple the rough-in valve within a wall opening.
 2. The universalrough-in valve according to claim 1, wherein the eccentric fastenercomprises a body and a head.
 3. The universal rough-in valve accordingto claim 2, wherein at least one of the body or the head define a toolengagement feature such that the fastener may be rotated from a front ora back of the fastener.
 4. The universal rough-in valve according toclaim 2, wherein the eccentric fastener head comprises a serrated outersurfaced configured to grip a sidewall of the wall opening.
 5. Theuniversal rough-in valve according to claim 2, wherein the eccentricfastener head is configured to engage a sidewall of the wall opening atan engagement point and the head includes a cam surface such thatrotation of the fastener about a fastener axis changes the distancebetween the fastener axis and the engagement point.
 6. The universalrough-in valve according to claim 1, further comprising a guide, whereinthe eccentric fastener is configured to couple to the guide, and whereinthe eccentric fastener is configured to be moved relative to the guidewith a tool.
 7. The universal rough-in valve according to claim 6,wherein the eccentric fastener comprises a threaded body configured toengage a guide opening.
 8. The universal rough-in valve according toclaim 6, wherein the guide comprises a face having a plurality of tabsextending from the face, the tabs configured to align the guide withinthe wall opening.
 9. The universal rough-in valve according to claim 8,wherein the tabs are arranged in a circular pattern.
 10. The universalrough-in valve according to claim 6, wherein the rough-in valvecomprises a receiver configured to engage the guide and to couple therough-in valve to the guide.
 11. The universal rough-in valve accordingto claim 10, wherein the guide comprises a first opening configured tobe aligned with the receiver when the rough-in valve is to be positionedwithin a wall having a first thickness, and wherein the guide comprisesa second opening configured to be aligned with the receiver when therough-in valve is to be positioned within a wall having a secondthickness.
 12. The universal rough-in valve according to claim 1,comprising two eccentric fasteners.
 13. The universal rough-in valveaccording to claim 1, comprising a valve manifold removably positionedin the valve chamber and configured to receive a fluid mixing valve. 14.A universal rough-in valve comprising: a valve chamber configured toreceive a valve manifold; a first valve inlet configured to provide apathway for fluid from a first supply line to the valve chamber; asecond valve inlet configured to provide a pathway for fluid from asecond supply line to the valve chamber; a first valve outlet configuredto provide a pathway for fluid from the valve chamber to a first outletline; a fluid mixing valve removably positioned in the valve chamber;and a ring configured to removably couple to the fluid mixing valve,wherein the ring is configured to assist in removing the fluid mixingvalve from the valve chamber.
 15. The universal rough-in valve accordingto claim 14, comprising a valve manifold removably positioned in thevalve chamber, wherein the fluid mixing valve is removably positioned ina valve manifold cavity.
 16. The universal rough-in valve according toclaim 14, wherein the fluid mixing valve is a pressure balance valve.17. The universal rough-in valve according to claim 14, wherein the ringis a split ring.
 18. The universal rough-in valve according to claim 14,wherein the fluid mixing valve comprises a trough configured to receivethe ring.
 19. A universal rough-in valve comprising: a valve chamberconfigured to receive a valve manifold; a first valve inlet configuredto provide a pathway for fluid from a first supply line to the valvechamber; a second valve inlet configured to provide a pathway for fluidfrom a second supply line to the valve chamber; a first valve outletconfigured to provide a pathway for fluid from the valve chamber to afirst outlet line; a valve manifold removably positioned in the valvechamber and configured to receive a fluid mixing valve, and a diverterrough-in valve coupled to the first valve outlet.
 20. The universalrough-in valve according to claim 19, wherein the diverter rough-invalve is configured to receive a diverter valve.